Concerns have been raised that legacy wastewater deficits will hamstring newly zoned land in Clare’s County Development Plan.
It’s after a variation to the plan this week has freed up 615 acres of land for immediate residential use.
Although the plan intends to unlock housing developments on over 250 new sites across the county, concern has emerged that existing infrastructure deficits will get in the way.
There are currently 50 towns and villages throughout Clare without a wastewater connection, and most notably pilot schemes approved for Broadford and Cooraclare are yet to get of the ground, and aren’t expected to be operational until 2030.
Clare County Council says final discussions are underway to secure government funding in respect of both schemes.
Kilmurry Fianna Fáil Councillor Alan O’Callaghan says villages countywide will not see growth until the process is sped up.
There have been calls for developer-led wastewater solutions to curb issues in rural areas, with Uisce Éireann actively exploring the policy for projects involving up to 40 homes.
However, Clonlara Independent Councillor and Planning Consultant Michael Begley believes this is a non-runner as he says it’s not profitable for construction companies.
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